House Infrastructure Committee Suspends Inquiry on Flood Control Project Scandal Pending ICI Investigation

Bicol Saro Party-list Representative Terry Ridon announced on Wednesday, September 24, that the House Infrastructure Committee has suspended its investigation into the flood control project controversy. He emphasized that this suspension is temporary and does not signal the end of the inquiry. "Today, we are announcing the suspension of proceedings of the House Infrastructure Committee to give way to the full and impartial proceedings of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI)," Ridon stated during a press conference. As chairman of the committee, Ridon reaffirmed his willingness to cooperate fully with the commission established by the Palace to investigate the corruption allegations. "Within the next few days, the Infrastructure Committee will turn over all transcripts, documents, and other relevant evidence to the ICI," he said. "We are committed to supporting the ICI in every aspect of their investigation based on the materials from our previous hearings." When asked if the committee’s proceedings might resume in the future, Ridon responded cautiously: "As long as the ICI is actively conducting its work focused on transparency, accountability, and justice, the House Infrastructure Committee's proceedings will remain suspended." The ICI, chaired by retired Supreme Court Justice Andres Reyes Jr., has been holding nearly daily hearings, site inspections, and other investigative activities since the beginning of the week. Meanwhile, Ridon’s committee had conducted two hearings prior to the suspension, including a notable session on September 9 where a former DPWH assistant district engineer implicated senators Jinggoy Estrada and Joel Villanueva in irregularities linked to flood mitigation projects. Additionally, Ridon revealed that House Speaker Faustino ‘Bojie’ Dy III plans to personally submit the committee’s documents to the ICI on the same day. "Speaker Bojie Dy will go to the ICI today to turn over the transcripts and all documents from the previous proceedings," Ridon said. He added that this gesture demonstrates the Speaker’s strong institutional commitment to cooperating with the commission. At the time of this report, media representatives were awaiting Speaker Dy’s arrival at the ICI headquarters in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.

US, Japan, and South Korea Strengthen Trilateral Partnership on Security and Economic Cooperation

Senior representatives from the United States, Japan, and South Korea gathered in New York on Sunday to reaffirm their trilateral partnership and enhance cooperation on regional security, economic stability, and global challenges, according to a joint statement issued by the three governments. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi, and South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun conducted discussions on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly to advance their shared strategic objectives across the Indo-Pacific and beyond. The three allies emphasized their dedication to ensuring the safety, security, and prosperity of their respective countries and the wider Indo-Pacific region, underscoring adherence to international law and the rule of law. ### Enhanced Security Commitments The United States reaffirmed its "ironclad" defense obligations toward Japan and South Korea, including extended deterrence supported by its comprehensive military capabilities, notably its nuclear arsenal. The officials committed to expanding trilateral security collaboration through regular joint exercises such as the multi-domain "Freedom Edge" drills and improving both individual and collective defense capabilities. New initiatives focusing on coast guard cooperation and maritime security were announced, particularly aimed at supporting ASEAN member states and countering unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea. The joint statement condemned efforts to alter the regional status quo and reiterated support for international maritime law under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Concerns were expressed regarding escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait, with the three governments urging a peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues and endorsing Taiwan's participation in international organizations. ### Unified Approach to North Korean Threats The trilateral partners reiterated their unified goal of achieving the "complete denuclearization" of North Korea in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions. They voiced serious concerns about increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, particularly concerning missile development, calling for an immediate cessation of these activities. Additionally, the officials highlighted worries about North Korea's cyber operations, including the deployment of overseas IT workers, and welcomed coordinated efforts to counter such threats. Continued collaboration is planned through the Trilateral Diplomatic Working Group on North Korean Cyber Threats. The partners also emphasized the importance of resolving longstanding humanitarian issues, focusing on abductees, detainees, and separated families. ### Advancing Economic and Technological Resilience The leaders pledged to deepen collaboration in critical areas such as supply chain security, emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and biotechnology—and clean energy initiatives. The statement noted, "The Secretary and Foreign Ministers committed to advance trilateral cooperation on supply chain resilience, digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, quantum, biotechnology, and other emerging technologies." Dialogue on critical minerals will be intensified, alongside strengthened cooperation in regions like Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa through the trilateral Early Warning System. In the energy sector, the trio committed to joint development of advanced civil nuclear reactors and enhancing energy security through diversified resources, including increased access to U.S. liquefied natural gas. Recent initiatives such as the Trilateral Workshops on Quantum Industrial Security and joint technology training programs received strong endorsement, alongside reaffirmed support for ongoing research sharing among national laboratories. The leaders also voiced strong opposition to economic coercion and unfair trade practices that could disrupt global supply chains. As underscored in the statement, "Standing firmly against economic coercion and non-market policies and practices, including export restrictions that could lead to significant supply chain disruptions, they reaffirmed their commitment to a free and fair global economic order." They further expressed anticipation of South Korea's upcoming role as host of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in 2025. The three officials reaffirmed the critical role of the Trilateral Coordinating Secretariat in driving joint initiatives and committed to maintaining trilateral engagements at all levels to support their shared objectives. "The Secretary and Foreign Ministers welcomed the active role of the Trilateral Coordinating Secretariat responsible for aligning the action-oriented objectives and coordinating and implementing tangible efforts.  They committed to continue trilateral meetings at all levels," the statement concluded.

Senate to Rigorously Review DPWH Budget Realignments Amid Controversies

Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo "Ping" Lacson announced on Wednesday, September 24, that he will conduct a meticulous review of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) proposed budget for 2026, particularly scrutinizing the reallocations introduced by the House of Representatives for social aid programs. Highlighting that at least P46 billion has been shifted towards "ayuda" initiatives, Lacson expressed concern over the potential irregularities these adjustments might entail. "We expect the House version of the General Appropriations Bill to be transmitted to us soon. We will compare this House version of the budget bill with the National Expenditure Program to check which items got a spike in funding," he stated in an interview on True FM. The Senate is scheduled to begin deliberations on the DPWH budget in October, with Lacson committing to focus efforts on this task. He stressed the importance of careful scrutiny, citing recent controversies that have plagued government projects, including the 2013 Napoles pork barrel scandal and this year’s flood control project irregularities. According to reports, the House has reallocated at least P46 billion of the DPWH’s flood control funds to social amelioration programs, including P32.6 billion allocated to the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) and P14.82 billion to the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. This has raised the proposed budgets for AICS to P59.5 billion and TUPAD to P26.9 billion for 2026. Previously, the DPWH reduced its proposed 2026 budget to P625.7 billion by removing all locally funded flood control projects and eliminating projects deemed susceptible to corruption, such as road reblocking and road stud installations. Lacson called on legislators to exercise prudence and restraint in making budget realignments, warning against repeating past mistakes. "We should be horrified by what happened. Let's not allow the problem to linger. Let us also help find ways to bring down our debt because our debt has grown so big," he urged. Referring to the nation’s struggle to recover from previous scandals, he added, "We have barely recovered from the Napoles scandal when we got hit by the controversy over flood control projects. What’s next?"

Puregold Launches First Store in Antique to Stimulate Local Economy and Employment

SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique — The first-ever Puregold store in Antique officially opened its doors on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone for the province's economic development and employment landscape. Leading the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Antique Representative Antonio Agapito Legarda emphasized that the store's arrival transcends the addition of a new retail outlet in San Jose de Buenavista. He remarked, \"This opening symbolizes the expanding growth of our local economy and presents a sustainable livelihood for our people.\" Representative Legarda encouraged Puregold's management to prioritize hiring locally to generate more job opportunities for the residents of Antique. He also advocated for the establishment of an additional branch in the northern part of the province to further extend employment benefits. In a message delivered on her behalf, Senator Loren Legarda expressed optimism regarding growing investment in Antique, stating that such developments are drawing residents back to the province due to the increasing availability of jobs. During a subsequent interview, Puregold Vice President for Operations Antonio De los Santos shared that the company is committed to employing predominantly Antiqueños, facilitating job creation while maintaining quality service standards. He stated, \"Our goal is to deliver security and care to our customers by employing local talents who understand the community.\" De los Santos also invited sari-sari store owners and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to explore the \"Tindahan ni Aling Puring\" program hosted within the store. This initiative offers access to quality products, business mentorship, and a complimentary lifetime membership aimed at empowering local merchants. Highlighting their ongoing expansion in the Panay region, De los Santos noted that the Antique outlet is Puregold's 15th store in the area and that they remain actively seeking new locations to serve and support communities. The opening of Puregold in Antique is seen as a positive development toward strengthening local commerce and employment opportunities across the province.

United Architects of the Philippines Calls Out Misuse of "Architect" Amid Corruption Allegations

The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) has issued a formal statement urging the public and media to stop using the term "architect" in a negative context, particularly as a label for individuals implicated in corruption or criminal masterminding. The statement, signed by UAP national president Jonathan Manalad, was released on September 23 amid ongoing discussions around government corruption in flood control projects. UAP emphasized that describing wrongdoers as "architects of plunder" misrepresents the honored profession that has upheld public service, safety, and nation-building for centuries. The organization referenced the Architecture Act of 2004, defining an architect as "a person professionally and academically qualified, registered, and licensed under the law, responsible for the planning, design, and construction of buildings and environments for human habitation." Highlighting the significance of language, UAP stated, "Words matter." They warned that the casual misuse of "architect" damages public respect for the profession, minimizes the rigorous education and ethical standards of architects, and erodes public trust. The group suggested alternative terms such as "mastermind," "perpetrator," or "brains behind corruption" and appealed to government bodies, private organizations, and media outlets to uphold the word's dignity. However, the statement drew mixed reactions from Filipino netizens. Content creator Chuckie Dreyfus critiqued the UAP’s focus, pointing out that dictionaries like Merriam-Webster define "architect" more broadly as "a person who designs and guides a plan or undertaking." He argued, "We architects build, we don’t plunder," but stressed that the greater priority should be fighting corruption itself rather than defending the semantics of the word. Other commentators noted that the figurative use of "architect" to indicate an orchestrator or mastermind is widely understood and has established dictionary backing. One user remarked, "No one in their right mind interprets it literally. There are bigger problems to solve." Another added, "Words evolve and carry metaphorical weight. No society has the authority to restrict their figurative use outside legal licensing." The debate underscores the tension between protecting professional identity and acknowledging language's dynamic nature. The Cambridge Dictionary also recognizes dual meanings for "architect": both the professional role and "a person responsible for achieving a particular plan or aim," whether positive or negative. As allegations of misappropriation in government initiatives unfold, the UAP continues to call for respect in speech, while many Filipinos urge prioritizing accountability over semantics.

DOT Launches Senior Citizen Tour Guide Training Program in Intramuros

MANILA — The Department of Tourism (DOT) has announced plans to expand training programs that will enable senior citizens to become certified tour guides across the Philippines. This initiative commenced with the first group of senior citizens undergoing a seven-day training workshop at the Centro de Turismo Intramuros in Manila, starting September 24, 2025. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco visited the training site where 30 participants, aged between 60 and 79, are enrolled in a 56-hour course. She described the pilot program as "just the beginning" and expressed optimism about its potential to provide meaningful opportunities for senior citizens. "This initial phase focuses on training our senior citizens as tour guides here in Intramuros," Frasco said. "Subsequent phases will expand to other key tourist destinations in the country." Upon completion of the course, the Intramuros Administration is committed to facilitating tour guiding engagements within the historic walled city to ensure that the participants' skills are immediately put into practice. The Community Tour Guiding Seminar for Senior Citizens was established following a Memorandum of Understanding signed on May 21 between the DOT and the National Commission of Senior Citizens. The program coincides with the observance of Tourism Month, highlighting the DOT's dedication to promoting inclusive tourism. This initiative forms part of the DOT’s broader efforts under the Office of Special Concerns, which focuses on supporting priority sectors nationwide. In addition to the training, Secretary Frasco distributed tour guiding kits and medical insurance packages to over 40 tour guides and kalesa drivers in Manila, further enhancing support for local tourism workers.

DigiPlus Pursues South African Licenses to Expand Global Footprint Amid Philippine Regulatory Challenges

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. (PLUS), the gaming and leisure firm behind the BingoPlus platform, has initiated efforts to broaden its global presence by applying for multiple gaming licenses in South Africa. The company filed applications for a national manufacturer license, a bookmaker license, and a bookmaker premises license with the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (WCGRB), the provincial authority overseeing gaming and betting activities. The firm considers South Africa a favorable jurisdiction for international operators due to its transparent regulatory environment and digital infrastructure readiness. DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio H. Tanco emphasized the significance of this move, stating, \"The filing of our online gaming license in South Africa marks another milestone in DigiPlus’ global growth journey, as we bring our proven track record of innovation, responsible gaming, and player protection, together with our strength in localizing games for diverse markets, to one of Africa’s most dynamic economies.\" This expansion effort follows the recent launch of the GamePlus platform in Brazil on September 22, which offers users access to more than 150 free-to-play and real-money games. Industry analysts view the South African license applications as a strategic next step for DigiPlus amid increased regulatory constraints on online gaming in the Philippines. Alfred Benjamin R. Garcia, Research Head at AP Securities, indicated that the move addresses the company’s need to diversify its revenue streams. In a message, he remarked, \"There’s an urgency for PLUS to diversify its revenue stream as the Philippines tightens its rule on online gambling, and we feel this is the right time for PLUS to explore other markets.\" Juan Paolo E. Colet, Managing Director at China Bank Capital Corp., highlighted the importance of this geographic diversification to mitigate country-specific risks and boost growth potential. He said, \"It makes sense to spread their chips across different jurisdictions so that they’re not overexposed to country-specific regulatory risk. The entry into new markets is expected to enhance overall revenues.\" Colet also noted that DigiPlus’ careful market selection and disciplined expansion plans continue to inspire investor confidence. On the stock market, shares of DigiPlus declined by 2.03%, dropping 50 centavos to close at P24.10 each on Wednesday.

Teleperformance Philippines Partners with TESDA to Launch Near-Hire Communication Training Program in Negros Occidental

Teleperformance (TP) in the Philippines has been officially acknowledged as one of the first organizations in Negros Occidental to register as a partner under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) initiative. This collaboration is designed to bolster workforce development by providing enhanced technical-vocational education and aligning skills training with the demands of the IT-BPM (Information Technology-Business Process Management) sector. The EBET Framework allows enterprises to influence training programs directly, ensuring graduates meet industry requirements. As part of its role, TP will implement the Near-Hire Communication Training Program, a TESDA-accredited, 10-day course aimed at preparing near-hires with essential communication skills tailored to the call center industry. The program comprises two key modules: "Communication 101," which focuses on fundamental communication techniques such as pronunciation, grammar, and conversational confidence; and "Call Center 101," which covers practical customer service skills like call handling, scripting, active listening, empathy, and problem-solving. Graduates emerge work-ready, armed with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in the country's rapidly expanding customer service sector. Jeffrey Johnson, Chief People Officer of TP in the Philippines, emphasized the program’s impact, stating, "This program goes beyond skills training, giving students a tangible gateway as they step into meaningful careers in the IT-BPM industry." TESDA Director General Jose Francisco Benitez highlighted the significance of this partnership, noting, "By registering programs under EBET, you are ensuring that our trainees are not only competent but also industry-ready. Enterprises can now dictate what skills and competences they need, and TESDA must respond flexibly and quickly to the evolving demands of the workforce. TP’s commitment enables our learners to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real workplace requirements." Adding to this, TESDA Negros Island Region Interim Regional Director Niña Connie Dodd expressed gratitude for the collaboration: "Through this program, we see the EBET framework in action, and we thank our partners for helping realize our vision of an empowered, work-ready youth." This partnership, forged between Teleperformance, TESDA, and Bacolod City College, exemplifies a successful collaboration among industry, government, and academic institutions dedicated to creating career opportunities for young Filipinos and strengthening local communities. The Near-Hire Communication Training Program stands as a testament to TP in the Philippines’ ongoing commitment to workforce development and talent empowerment, reaffirming its role as a leading employer in the country.

Trump Administration Redirects $1.8 Billion in Foreign Aid to ‘America First’ Priorities

WASHINGTON – The Trump administration has announced plans to redirect $1.8 billion in foreign aid funding toward initiatives aligned with its "America First" agenda. According to a Congressional Notification sent on September 12, these funds will be used to bolster U.S. national security interests by supporting efforts such as investments in Greenland, countering Chinese influence, and addressing migration challenges. The notification highlights priorities including diversifying critical mineral supply chains, fostering strategic infrastructure projects, and confronting "Marxist, anti-American regimes" in Latin America, specifically Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua. Approximately $400 million is earmarked for programs in Europe focused on energy and mineral resources in Ukraine and development efforts in Greenland — a territory whose vast natural resources and strategic location have attracted President Trump’s attention. A State Department spokesperson emphasized the shift, stating, "The United States will prioritize trade over aid, opportunity over dependency, and investment over assistance," underscoring the administration’s intention to align foreign assistance programs with its policy goals. This reallocation represents a departure from traditional U.S. foreign aid, which has long functioned as a soft power tool by providing food, medical, and economic support globally. Since the start of Trump’s second term, the administration has significantly reduced funding for foreign aid programs, culminating in the effective dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). This restructuring led to widespread job losses and disrupted humanitarian operations. Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen criticized the plan, stating, "Funding politically driven, unaccountable, pet projects in places like Greenland or using aid to pressure African governments on immigration is out of step with America’s foreign policy interests and an abuse of Americans’ tax dollars." She also condemned the administration for undermining Congress’s constitutional authority over budgetary matters. Republican Senator Jim Risch’s office has yet to comment on the notification. Earlier this year, Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the administration’s overhaul as a move away from a charity-based foreign aid model towards empowering sustainable development in partner countries. Foreign aid traditionally represents only about 1% of the federal budget, but these recent changes signify a substantial shift in its purpose and execution under the Trump administration.

Filipino Jiu-Jitsu Team Clinches Overall Championship at SJJIF World Tournament in Japan

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino jiu-jitsu practitioners delivered a stellar performance at the 2025 Sports Jiu-Jitsu International Federation (SJJIF) World Jiu-Jitsu Championship and No-Gi Championship held in Chiba, Japan, capturing three gold medals and securing overall tournament honors. Joson Tessa and Jeon Dela Cruz were standout competitors for the Philippines. Tessa secured two gold medals, winning the Gi Female Gray Kid 5 Light Feather division by outpointing Aina Fugisawa of Evox BJJ. She followed this by triumphing in the No-Gi Female Gray Kid 5 Light Feather category against Sawka Lilly of Hi Grade Jiujitsu. Jeon Dela Cruz added to the medal haul, clinching gold in the Gi Male Gray Kid 3 Rooster class after defeating Tomura Eishin from Carpe Diem Yokohama. However, the tournament’s highlight was Callum Roberts’ dominant showing. Roberts, representing the Philippine Team, claimed three golds across different weight classes. He submitted Nakamura Goki of Infight Japan with a straight arm lock to win the Gi Ultra Heavyweight Male Blue (Adults 18) division. Roberts then showcased his skill by forcing a back take Colla Choke submission on Nakahara Gustavo of Carlos Toyota BJJ in the Gi Open Weight Male Blue (Adults) category. He capped off his sweep with a decisive Arm Triangle submission over Pchelnikov Nikita from ZR Team Blagoveshcensk in the No-Gi Ultra Heavyweight Male Blue (Adults 18) class. Alvin Aguilar, a leading figure of DEFTAC, praised the team’s accomplishment, stating, \"We are thrilled to announce our monumental achievement as we emerged as the OVERALL CHAMPIONS in both GI and NO GI categories at the largest Jiujitsu tournament ever held in Asia!\" Aguilar highlighted that the competition featured more than 300 teams and over 5,000 athletes from around the world. DEFTAC’s Six Blades Kids Team topped the leaderboard with a total medal count of 10 gold, 10 silver, and 13 bronze medals. Impacto BJJ followed closely in second place with 10 golds, 5 silvers, and 8 bronzes, while Carlos Toyota BJJ finished third, earning 6 gold, 6 silver, and 8 bronze medals among five international clubs. Aguilar attributed the success to the dedication of chapter heads, coaches, parents, and athletes, emphasizing the strong community that supports the team’s consistent excellence. \"This victory is a testament to the dedication and passion of our fantastic chapter heads, coaches, parents, and, of course, our talented athletes. Together, we have built a supportive community that fosters success and excellence,\" he remarked.